> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2803910-programming-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2803910-programming-lead). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Programming Lead - **Company:** Narrative Entertainment - **Location:** Greater London, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Computer Programming, Recommender Systems - **Published:** September 9, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.collegerecruiter.com/job/2856369990-programming-lead ## About the Role * Experience leading a team, with the ability to get the best from people * Strong editorial judgement and deep knowledge of the UK content and TV landscape, including the rights market * Proficiency with BARB and TechEdge to build ratings-driven schedules across linear and on-demand services * Strong analytical and presentation skills. Strong financial acumen, with the confidence to own a programming budget, balance spend against return and deliver commercial results * Solid working knowledge of Ofcom compliance and the UK Broadcasting Code * Knowledge of BTS or a similar scheduling tool (training can be provided), and of the advertising market, * A proactive approach and an analytical eye - excited by continual improvement and the desire to make an impact * Highly organised and calm under pressure, able to juggle a varied workload without dropping standards * An excellent communicator - respectful, clear and able to communicate with a variety of stakeholders * Collaborative and comfortable working across departments ## Description The Programming Lead runs their own channel end to end - owning the schedule, planning, editorial and programming budget - while also overseeing a small team of experienced channel managers and contributing to the wider channel strategy. Reporting to the Director of Programming, who holds overall accountability for programming strategy, you'll set the standard for planning and scheduling across the portfolio, translate strategy into competitive, audience-winning schedules, and balance spend against return to keep your channel performing commercially. As the primary point of contact for your channel across linear, FAST and VOD, you'll work closely with marketing and creative services, research, operations, media planning, compliance, finance and commercial teams. * Own the planning and execution of quarterly and monthly schedules and promo-tables for your channel * Evaluate and select programming, applying strong editorial judgement to build schedules that hold brand values and hit commercial ratings KPIs. * Analyse ratings and trends (BARB and TechEdge), track competitor activity, and turn insight into competitive scheduling decisions. * Partner and communicate effectively with teams across the organisation and manage delivery with partners including agencies, traffic, compliance and broadcast services. * Oversee inventory and stock and keep planning documents accurate and shareable - rolling 12-month and full-year plans, and highlights. Management of Area * Oversee a small team of experienced channel managers, setting clear objectives and consistent standards, and supporting their delivery. * Take ownership of your programming budget - balancing spend against return, keeping a clear and current view of your financial position, and bringing sound financial acumen and accountability to every content decision. * Own monthly portfolio planning sessions, coordinating programme sharing, complementary promotions and stunts, and avoiding clashes across the portfolio. Shape strategy and the portfolio * Contribute to shaping the departments channel strategy and long-range plan, in support of the Director of Programming * Take an evidence-based approach to content - partnering with the insights and research team and turning performance data and audience insight into clear, evidence-backed content recommendations and plans * Oversee M&E VOD planning and delivery, support delegated budget management, and continually seek opportunities to improve channel and portfolio performance * Substantial, recent experience managing channel services, ideally in free-to-air television. ## Related Videos - [Hiring Technical Leaders: Promote from Within or Go External?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100167-hiring-technical-leaders-promote-from-within-or-go-external) - [Photonic Computing: Programming a New Class of AI Accelerators (incl. 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